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Place guide3 min readUpdated 10 Sept 2026

By the Down The Cove editorial team

Penlee Lifeboat

Penlee RNLI lifeboat station, now based at Newlyn near Mousehole, carries a remarkable 200-year history of bravery, including the loss of the Solomon Browne crew in 1981. Today it operates the Severn class Ivan Ellen and the Atlantic 85 Mollie and Ivor Dent.

Read the guide
Penlee RNLI Severn class lifeboat moored at the station in Newlyn, Cornwall.
Quick notes for your visit

Coastal trip

Plan your visit

A simple guide to the feel of the place, how to arrive, and what to keep in mind before you go.

Penlee Lifeboat is the sort of coastal experience that feels best when you slow down, watch the weather, and let the sea set the pace.

Best forAn active on-the-water experience with a stronger sense of tide, weather and local knowledge.

Wildlife watching, boat trips, sea views and memorable days out.

Getting thereParking, arrival and the practical first steps.

Plan the meeting point, parking and boarding time before setting off, especially in busy school holidays.

What to look forA calmer way to plan with children or visitors.

Best for families who are comfortable around boats, sea air and changing conditions.

Before you goThe small checks that make the day easier.

Coastal trips can change with tide and weather, so confirm details on the day and bring layers even in summer.

The full guide

Read straight through, or use the planning notes above to shape an easier coastal day.

Penlee RNLI

The Lifeboats

Ivan Ellen - Severn Class Lifeboat

Mollie and Ivor Dent - Atlantic 85 (B Class)

Browse coastline guides
More information about the Lifeboats

The Lifeboat Station

Penlee has a remarkable history of bravery with the lifeboat crews being presented with 44 awards for gallantry during its 200 year history. The station has also witnessed tragedy with eight lifeboat crew losing their lives saving others at sea - a well known disaster that occurred in December 1981 when the Solomon Browne was launched in a hurricane to go to the aid of a coaster called the Union Star - sadly there were no survivors.

The station was formerly at Mousehole but is now in Newlyn.

More information about Penlee RNLI Station

Support Penlee Lifeboat...

Visit Penlee Lifeboat's websiteFollow Penlee Lifeboat on TwitterLike Penlee Lifeboat on FacebookView our coastal safety guidePurchase our PDF Charity Song Book in aid of the RNLI

With thanks to the RNLI for allowing us to use their information

Common questions

Where is Penlee lifeboat station?
The station was formerly at Mousehole but is now based in Newlyn, Cornwall.
What lifeboats does Penlee Lifeboat Station operate?
Penlee operates two lifeboats: the Ivan Ellen, a Severn class all-weather lifeboat, and the Mollie and Ivor Dent, an Atlantic 85 (B class) inshore lifeboat.
How can you support Penlee RNLI lifeboat station?
The RNLI is a charity funded by voluntary donations and legacies. You can support Penlee lifeboat and the wider RNLI by donating or fundraising through rnli.org.

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